Manufacturing Engineer, Starship - Materials Production
Core
Develop and optimize chemical processing operations to produce high-quality silicone adhesives, paints, ablatives, and thermal protection materials for Starship and other SpaceX programs.
Role type
Manufacturing Engineer (Materials Production)
Builds
Silicone RTV adhesives, paints, ablatives, and thermal protection materials
Domain
Aerospace manufacturing / Chemical processing
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
chemical processing, polymer manufacturing, process optimization, equipment design and qualification, root cause analysis, DOE, SPC, lean manufacturing, hazardous materials handling, supplier qualification, capital equipment project management
Preferred skills
silicone chemistry, polymer processing, materials characterization (rheology/viscometry, thermal analysis), process simulation, R&D to high-volume transition, Six Sigma certification
Technologies
mixers, reactors, degassers, vacuum systems, pumps, material handling systems, ERP/MRP systems
Responsibilities
Develop and optimize production processes for formulated materials; Design, specify, and qualify production equipment; Drive design for manufacturing during new material development cycles; Resolve complex manufacturing defects through root cause investigation and validation testing; Develop and maintain process specifications, SOPs, and control plans; Lead process qualification and validation activities for new materials and equipment; Implement statistical process control (SPC) and data-driven approaches to monitor process capability; Partner with supply chain and quality teams to qualify raw materials and resolve quality issues; Lead capital equipment projects from concept through installation; Build and scale manufacturing processes from the ground up
Seniority
Entry to Mid-level, hands-on IC